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Neither do I wish to have one feel I prefer the other over him. Thus we will follow my brother Salisbury's counselwhich you were clever enough to remind me of, Henryand we will allow the lady to choose for herself." |
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"That is for her to decide. To the best of my knowledge, she has never set eyes on either of you and, even if she should find someone who has and who can tell her of you, it will not matter. My love for you, I say, is equal because you are so equal in every respect." Again the two men flushed and winced under the king's tone, but he went on smoothly. "I will offer a consolation prize to the loser. With him, I will divide the fine the lady will pay for the right to pick her own husband." |
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Both men bowed again, their eyes lighting with greed and satisfaction. John smiled on them, well pleased with himself because he knew he had handled this situation perfectly. He would achieve his purpose concerning Alinor's person; he would have two great strongholds, both in important positions, under his own personal control; it would cost him nothing to obtain the castles; and neither of his tools would have cause for resentment. The one who achieved the lady would have considerable wealth, but only after great effort had been expended; the loser would have a rich reward for nothing at all. Neither probably knew which prize to desire most. |
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John had read his henchmen's feelings quite accurately, except for one thing. No matter which man gained which reward, he would feel cheated. He would be sure the other had benefited more than himself. Such was the nature of Fulk and Henry, that of ungrateful beasts. Nonetheless, at the moment that canker had not yet had time to take root. The only concern Fulk and Henry felt was that the king would slip back into his lethargy before setting the choice of delicacies before Lady Alinor. That had been known to happen. In this |
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